U.S. patent application number 16/963954 was filed with the patent office on 2021-02-18 for electrical socket extender.
The applicant listed for this patent is INTELLECTUAL PRODUCTS LIMITED. Invention is credited to Michael TSANG.
Application Number | 20210050695 16/963954 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005226588 |
Filed Date | 2021-02-18 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20210050695 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
TSANG; Michael |
February 18, 2021 |
ELECTRICAL SOCKET EXTENDER
Abstract
The present invention relates to an electrical socket extender
to provide an electrical socket remote from a surface/wall-mounted
electrical socket. In particular, the present invention relates to
an electrical socket extender to provide an electrical socket
remote from a surface/wall-mounted electrical socket, the socket
extender comprising: a socket engaging portion connectable to the
wall-mounted electrical socket; an appliance socket section
providing one or more electrical appliance socket; and a linkage
which connects the appliance socket section to the socket engaging
portion.
Inventors: |
TSANG; Michael; (Clacton on
Sea, Essex, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
INTELLECTUAL PRODUCTS LIMITED |
Clacton on Sea, Essex |
|
GB |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005226588 |
Appl. No.: |
16/963954 |
Filed: |
February 22, 2019 |
PCT Filed: |
February 22, 2019 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/GB2019/050498 |
371 Date: |
July 22, 2020 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H01R 31/02 20130101;
H01R 13/73 20130101; H02G 11/00 20130101; H02G 3/0406 20130101;
H01R 31/06 20130101; H01R 27/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H01R 31/02 20060101
H01R031/02; H01R 31/06 20060101 H01R031/06; H01R 27/00 20060101
H01R027/00; H02G 11/00 20060101 H02G011/00; H02G 3/04 20060101
H02G003/04 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Feb 22, 2018 |
GB |
1802910.8 |
Feb 22, 2019 |
GB |
2019050498 |
Claims
1. An electrical socket extender to provide an electrical socket
remote from a wall-mounted electrical socket, the socket extender
comprising: a socket engaging portion connectable to the
wall-mounted electrical socket and comprising: a non-conductive
housing having at least one electrically conductive prong for
insertion into a female recess of the wall-mounted electrical
socket to electrically couple thereto; and one or more secure
primary coupling formation formed about a periphery of the socket
engaging portion such that, when the socket engaging portion is
engaged with a wall-mounted electrical socket one or more of the or
each primary coupling formation may releasably connect to a linkage
to form an electrical connection therewith; an appliance socket
section providing one or more electrical appliance socket and
comprising: a body having at least one electrically conductive
recess formed therein, the recess allowing insertion of an
electrically conductive prong of an electrical appliance plug; and
one or more secure secondary coupling formation formed about a
periphery of the appliance socket section, one or more of the or
each secondary coupling formation releasably connectable to the
linkage and the or each secondary coupling formation having an
electrical connection, interior to the body, to electrically-couple
the linkage to the electrical appliance socket; and a linkage,
which connects the appliance socket section to the socket engaging
portion, comprising: an elongate and electrically insulated body
having a first end releasably connectable to any primary coupling
formation, a second end connectable to any secondary coupling
formation; and a conducting arrangement extending the length of the
body, between the first end and the second end to electrically
couple the socket engaging portion to the appliance socket section,
wherein the first end of the linkage is connected, or integrated,
to the socket engaging portion and the second end of the linkage is
connected, or integrated, to the appliance socket section such that
the linkage extends from the socket engaging portion over the
wall.
2. An electrical socket extender to provide an electrical socket
remote from a wall-mounted electrical socket, the socket extender
comprising: a socket engaging portion connectable to the
wall-mounted electrical socket and comprising: a non-conductive
housing having at least one electrically conductive prong for
insertion into a female recess of the wall-mounted electrical
socket to electrically couple thereto; and two or more secure
primary coupling formations formed about a periphery of the socket
engaging portion such that, when the socket engaging portion is
engaged with a wall-mounted electrical socket each primary coupling
formation may releasably connect to a linkage to form an electrical
connection therewith; an appliance socket section providing one or
more electrical appliance socket and comprising: a body having at
least one electrically conductive recess formed therein, the recess
allowing insertion of an electrically conductive prong of an
electrical appliance plug; and two or more secure secondary
coupling formations formed about a periphery of the appliance
socket section, each secondary coupling formation releasably
connectable to the linkage and each secondary coupling formation
having an electrical connection, interior to the body, to
electrically-couple the linkage to the electrical appliance socket;
and a linkage, which connects the appliance socket section to the
socket engaging portion, comprising: a substantially rigid,
elongate and electrically insulated body having a first end
releasably connectable to any of the primary coupling formations, a
second end connectable to any of the secondary coupling formations;
and a conducting arrangement extending the length of the body,
between the first end and the second end to electrically couple the
socket engaging portion to the appliance socket section, wherein
the first end of the linkage is connected, or integrated, to the
socket engaging portion and the second end of the linkage is
connected, or integrated, to the appliance socket section such that
the linkage extends from the socket engaging portion over the wall
and the appliance socket section is supported in its position
remote from the wall-mounted electrical socket by the linkage.
3. An electrical socket extender as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
linkage is extendable.
4. An electrical socket extender as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
linkage comprises a telescopic arrangement to permit extension
thereof.
5. An electrical socket extender as claimed in claim 4, wherein the
telescopic arrangement comprises a releasable locking means to
secure the telescopic arrangement at various positions along a
range of linear extended positions.
6. An electrical socket extender as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
linkage includes at least one joint either formed along the length
of the linkage between sub-sections thereof or at either end of the
linkage.
7. An electrical socket extender as claimed in claim 6, wherein the
linkage comprises at least one joint stabiliser, selectively
engageable to prevent articulation of the at least one joint.
8. An electrical socket extender as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
linkage comprises at least one swivel formed along the length of
the linkage or at either end of the linkage.
9. An electrical socket extender as claimed in claim 8, wherein the
linkage comprises at least one swivel lock to prevent movement of
parts relative to the at least one swivel.
10. An electrical socket extender as claimed in claim 1, wherein
the appliance socket section and/or the socket engaging portion
have a handle.
11. An electrical socket extender as claimed in claim 10, wherein
the or each handle is movable between a use position and a storage
position.
12. An electrical socket extender as claimed in claim 5, wherein
the locking means may be selectively disengaged by a release
mechanism to enable the linkage to be further extended or
retracted.
13. An electrical socket extender as claimed in claim 1, wherein
the linkage comprises means to enable two or more of such linkages
to be connected, or integrated, to one another between the socket
engaging portion and the appliance socket section, to extend the
reach of the electrical socket extender and/or change
direction/orientation.
14. An electrical socket extender as claimed in claim 13, wherein
the linkage includes one or more accordion/concertina elements
either formed along the length of the linkage between sub-sections
thereof or at either end of the linkage, wherein the one or more
accordion/concertina joints allow the linkage or the sub-sections
to flex in all directions, including bend sideways, relative to
each other.
15. An electrical socket extender as claimed in claim 1, wherein
the linkage and/or appliance socket section comprises connecting
means to connect the linkage and/or appliance socket section to the
wall.
16. An electrical socket extender as claimed in claim 15, wherein
the appliance socket section is attached, preferably by clipping
means, to a docking plate that is secured to the wall to thereby
supporting the appliance socket section in its position remote from
the wall-mounted electrical socket.
17. An electrical socket extender as claimed in claim 1, wherein
the socket engaging portion is interchangeable with differently
configured socket engaging portions to accommodate wall-mounted
electrical sockets of different configurations and the appliance
socket section is independently interchangeable to accommodate
electrical appliance plugs of differing number or configuration,
including existing conventional electric plug elements.
18. An electrical socket extender as claimed in claim 1, wherein
the housing is formed by a cover and a plug element having
conducting prongs, the plug element being attached to the
cover.
19. An electrical socket extender as claimed in claim 18, wherein
the cover comprises one or more pieces which are pre-assembled or
integrated with the plug element, preferably wherein the one or
more pieces are secured to the plug by clipping means.
20. An electrical socket extender as claimed in claim 1, wherein
the cover comprises a handle that is configured to electrically
couple the socket engaging portion with the linkage.
21. An electrical socket extender as claimed in claim 1, wherein
the elongate and electrically insulated body is formed by one
accordion/concertina element or a plurality of articulated
sub-sections, preferably interconnected by accordion/concertina
elements.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to an electrical socket
extender to provide an electrical socket remote from a wall-mounted
electrical socket.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Wall-mounted electrical sockets are often pre-installed in
domestic and commercial premises in order to provide sources of
electricity for the occupants of those premises and their
appliances. Unfortunately, the locations in which these electrical
sockets are provided may not always be convenient, especially due
to the positioning of furniture or equipment close to a wall on
which the wall-mounted electrical socket is located. Furthermore,
persons with physical impairments, such as those who are injured,
disabled (e.g. wheelchair bound) or who have declining health, may
well find it difficult to reach these wall-mounted electrical
sockets, especially if a socket is located particularly low or high
on a wall, or behind a piece of furniture. The problem is
compounded by the fact that rewiring wall-mounted electrical
sockets in order to relocate them is a manually intensive and
expensive task, which involves considerable work being carried out
on one or more walls of the premises, something which may not be
permitted in certain circumstances, for instance should the
premises be rented, or be a listed building.
[0003] Extension cords, having a male plug for insertion into an
electrical socket, one or more female appliance outlets and an
insulated cable connecting the plug to the one or more outlet are
often used to extend the reach of such wall-mounted electrical
sockets. These devices, though quite versatile, present a number of
issues. For example, the cable can create a tripping hazard or may
be chewed or tampered with by children and small animals, and the
devices are also often visually unappealing, especially where there
is sagging or coiled cabling. Furthermore, though the appliance
outlet may have means for mounting to a wall, mounting the
appliance outlet in such a way is rarely a suitable option for a
user, due to unsightliness and issues with carrying out work on the
walls. A further concern is that even if a user chooses to mount an
extension cord to a wall, during subsequent use and reordering of
the contents of the premises, the new location of the outlet may
itself become inconvenient. If the user is to remedy the problem,
they then need to choose a new fixed location, perform the
necessary work on the wall to provide a new mounting and probably
also fix the damage caused by the initial mounting of the appliance
outlet to the wall.
[0004] The present invention thus aims to provide a means by which
a user can quickly, securely and simply create an electrical
outlet, connected to, but remote from, a wall-mounted electrical
socket, without damaging substantially the wall adjacent to the
socket. The present invention also aims to provide a collapsible
socket extender which allows improved portability and storage. The
present invention allows a user quickly and easily to extend the
reach of a surface/wall-mounted electrical socket in order to
create an electrical socket in a more convenient location. This
electrical socket can thus allow the user greater flexibility in
how they organise the contents of a room and also makes reaching
the electrical outlet much less demanding.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] According to the present invention there is provided an
electrical socket extender to provide an electrical socket remote
from a wall-mounted electrical socket, the socket extender
comprising: [0006] a socket engaging portion connectable to the
wall-mounted electrical socket and comprising: [0007] a
non-conductive housing having at least one electrically conductive
prong for insertion into a female recess of the wall-mounted
electrical socket to electrically couple thereto; and [0008] one or
more secure primary coupling formation formed about a periphery of
the socket engaging portion such that, when the socket engaging
portion is engaged with a wall-mounted electrical socket one or
more of the or each primary coupling formation may releasably
connect to a linkage to form an electrical connection therewith;
[0009] an appliance socket section providing one or more electrical
appliance socket and comprising: [0010] a body having at least one
electrically conductive recess formed therein, the recess allowing
insertion of an electrically conductive prong of an electrical
appliance plug; and [0011] one or more secure secondary coupling
formation formed about a periphery of the appliance socket section,
one or more of the or each secondary coupling formation releasably
connectable to the linkage and the or each secondary coupling
formation having an electrical connection, interior to the body, to
electrically-couple the linkage to the electrical appliance socket;
and [0012] a linkage, which connects the appliance socket section
to the socket engaging portion, comprising: [0013] an elongate and
electrically insulated body having a first end releasably
connectable to any primary coupling formation, a second end
connectable to any secondary coupling formation; and [0014] a
conducting arrangement extending the length of the body, between
the first end and the second end to electrically couple the socket
engaging portion to the appliance socket section, [0015] wherein
the first end of the linkage is connected, or integrated, to the
socket engaging portion and the second end of the linkage is
connected, or integrated, to the appliance socket section such that
the linkage extends from the socket engaging portion over the
wall.
[0016] According to the present invention there is also provided an
electrical socket extender to provide an electrical socket remote
from a surface/wall-mounted electrical socket, the socket extender
comprising: [0017] a socket engaging portion connectable to the
wall-mounted electrical socket and comprising: [0018] a
non-conductive housing having at least one electrically conductive
prong for insertion into a female recess of the wall-mounted
electrical socket to electrically couple thereto; and [0019] two or
more secure primary coupling formations formed about a periphery of
the socket engaging portion such that, when the socket engaging
portion is engaged with a wall-mounted electrical socket each
primary coupling formation may releasably connect to a linkage to
form an electrical connection therewith; [0020] an appliance socket
section providing one or more electrical appliance socket and
comprising: [0021] a body having at least one electrically
conductive recess formed therein, the recess allowing insertion of
an electrically conductive prong of an electrical appliance plug;
and [0022] two or more secure secondary coupling formations formed
about a periphery of the appliance socket section, each secondary
coupling formation releasably connectable to the linkage and each
secondary coupling formation having an electrical connection,
interior to the body, to electrically-couple the linkage to the
electrical appliance socket; and [0023] a linkage, which connects
the appliance socket section to the socket engaging portion,
comprising: [0024] a substantially rigid, elongate and electrically
insulated body having a first end releasably connectable to any of
the primary coupling formations, a second end connectable to any of
the secondary coupling formations; and [0025] a conducting
arrangement extending the length of the body, between the first end
and the second end to electrically couple the socket engaging
portion to the appliance socket section, [0026] wherein the first
end of the linkage is connected, or integrated, to the socket
engaging portion and the second end of the linkage is connected, or
integrated, to the appliance socket section such that the linkage
extends from the socket engaging portion over the wall/surface and
the appliance socket section is supported in its position remote
from the wall-mounted electrical socket by the linkage.
[0027] The provision of one or more secure primary coupling
formations formed about a periphery of the socket engaging portion,
and one or more secure secondary coupling formations formed about a
periphery of the appliance socket section, permit the electrical
socket extender to be assembled in various configurations, for
instance, dependent upon the needs of the user and/or the space
limitations of the premises where the electrical socket extender is
being used. Each configuration may allow the extender to reach from
the wall-mounted electrical socket in a different direction
adjacent the wall. The specific locations of the primary coupling
formations about the periphery of the socket engaging portion may
help to determine in which direction the linkage can extend from
the socket engaging portion, when the linkage is connected to one
of the primary couplings. The linkage may be integrated to one of
the primary couplings.
[0028] Four primary coupling formations may be provided and
disposed such that a connected or integrated linkage can extend
generally upward towards the ceiling, downward towards the floor,
or in either direction horizontally along the wall. An arrangement
such as this should cover most of the orientations that an average
user would require of such an electrical socket extender, in order
to usefully relocate an electrical socket, adjacent a wall. A
plurality of linkages and appliance socket sections may be provided
with the electrical socket extender. One, or each, primary coupling
formation of a single socket engaging portion may connect with a
separate linkage. Each linkage may be connected, or integrated, to
a separate appliance socket section, such that multiple appliance
socket sections are provided remote from, but connected to, the
single socket engaging portion and wall-mounted electrical socket.
Where a plurality of linkages and appliance socket sections are
provided, these may be connected or integrated in a modular fashion
such that each appliance socket section may connect to and support
one or more further linkages and appliance socket sections.
[0029] Primary coupling formations and/or secondary coupling
formations which are not connected, or integrated, to the linkage
may have covers to prevent tampering. This is especially useful as
a safety mechanism, as it helps to avoid children tampering with
the socket extender, and potentially receiving hazardous electric
shocks. The covers of the primary and/or secondary coupling
formations may comprise any suitable means, for instance bungs,
inserts or shutters. The primary coupling formations may comprise
isolating means to prevent a primary coupling formation from
conducting electricity unless a linkage is connected or integrated
therewith. The secondary coupling formations may comprise isolating
means to prevent a secondary coupling formation from conducting
electricity unless a linkage is connected or integrated therewith.
The coupling formations may be covered in such a way that only by
introduction of a linkage to the coupling formation is a cover
thereof unlocked or moved to prevent accidental access.
[0030] The socket engaging portion may comprise disconnecting means
to aid in disconnecting the socket engaging portion from the
wall-mounted electrical socket. The disconnecting means may be
stowed when not required, to prevent the disconnecting means from
becoming a nuisance during assembly, disassembly or use of the
electrical socket extender, and to enhance the aesthetic appeal of
the electrical socket extender. The disconnecting means may
comprise a handle. They may be stowed by a folding and/or sliding
motion.
[0031] The socket engaging portion may further comprise one or more
electrical appliance socket. This has the advantages of increasing
the number of electrical appliance sockets and leaving one
available at the original location of the socket. The socket
engaging portion may comprise one or more features commonly found
on wall-mounted electrical sockets, such as USB charging ports,
electrical isolation means (which may comprise one or more ON/OFF
switch) and indicator lights to indicate whether the socket
engaging portion and/or any of the secure primary coupling
formations are conducting electricity.
[0032] The appliance socket section may comprise one or more
similar feature, such as USB charging porta, ON/OFF switch and
indicator lights.
[0033] The electrical socket extender may comprise a timer to
control the supply of electricity to any connected appliances. The
timer may limit the supply of electricity to certain times of the
day and/or may only supply electricity for a specific length of
time after the timer is activated, the specific length of time
which may be pre-set by a user.
[0034] Preferably, the linkage is extendable. The advantage of an
extendable linkage is to allow alteration of the effective range of
the socket extender to suit requirements. The extension of the
linkage may be achieved by including various suitable means.
Preferably, the linkage is also retractable so that it may
lengthened and shortened.
[0035] Preferably, the linkage comprises a telescopic arrangement
to permit adjustment thereof. The telescopic arrangement is a
particularly compact means of providing linear contraction and/or
extension of the linkage and may permit a wide range of positions.
The telescopic arrangement may have at least 2 telescopic linkage
sections. The telescopic arrangement can also allow the linkage to
be light-weight yet strong when appropriately constructed, for
instance by using an appropriate material and/or by modifying the
linkage structure. The telescopic arrangement may comprise two or
more telescopic linkage sections which slide relative to one
another.
[0036] The telescopic sections may have a variety of shapes and may
be variously configured to allow extension.
[0037] The telescopic sections may be stacked upon one another and
extend by the sliding of adjacent telescopic sections. The
telescopic sections may be disposed concentrically of one another
and extend by the sliding of internal sections relative to external
sections. The telescopic sections may have a substantially constant
cross-sectional shape along a portion, or the majority, of each
telescopic section. The cross-section(s) of the linkage may be
circular, square, rectangular or oval, though various other shapes
are within the scope of the application.
[0038] One or more of the telescopic sections may include a stop,
which can limit the extension of one telescopic section relative to
a connected telescopic section or sections adjacent thereto. Stops
may be particularly useful to prevent the telescopic arrangement
from coming apart by over extension.
[0039] As an alternative to, or in combination with, a telescopic
arrangement, the linkage may comprise a folding structure which
permits extension of the linkage as relatively movable parts of the
folding structure unfold. The folding structure may comprise
folding members which fold or pivot relative to one another in
order to extend, retract, and/or bend sideways as it will be
described below.
[0040] Preferably, the telescopic arrangement comprises a
releasable locking means to secure the telescopic arrangement at a
desired position along a range of linear extended positions. A
releasable locking means ensures that the linkage and appliance
socket section may be supported stably in a desired extended
position. There may be multiple releasable locking means, each
acting between adjacent sections of the telescopic arrangement.
[0041] The releasable locking means may comprise any suitable
mechanism, for instance, one or more clamp, a twist and locking
means between adjacent telescopic sections, or a frictional fit
between adjacent telescopic sections. A suitable mechanism for the
releasable locking means may comprise a snap-lock configuration. A
snap-lock configuration may be such that an interior telescopic
section comprises a depressible locking formation which is
spring-biased to project from the exterior surface of an interior
telescopic section, the locking formation which may be depressible
into the surface of the interior telescopic section until the
projection is at least flush with the surface of the interior
telescopic section.
[0042] An exterior telescopic section which slides telescopically
relative to an interior section may have one or more opening formed
along its surface. The opening or openings may be larger than the
locking formation, so that the locking formation may spring up
through an opening, when an opening slides into position directly
above the locking formation (as the telescopic sections move
relative to one another), thus securing the interior telescopic
section to the exterior telescopic section. Where an exterior
telescopic section comprises more than one opening, these may be
equally spaced along the length of an exterior section, thus
permitting the telescopic arrangement to be securable at a
plurality of discrete, regular and secure locking positions.
[0043] The locking means may be selectively disengaged by a release
mechanism to enable the linkage to be further extended or
retracted. The release mechanism may be remote from the locking
means. The release mechanism might allow simultaneous release and
engagement of all locking means to enable rapid retraction, or
further extension, of the linkage.
[0044] Preferably, the linkage comprises at least one joint either
formed along the length of the linkage between sub-sections thereof
and/or at either end of the linkage. Inclusion of at least one
joint may allow the linkage to change direction/orientation.
[0045] Preferably, the elongate and electrically insulated body is
or includes one or more resiliently deformable members, more
preferably one or more accordion or concertina joints/members,
either formed along the length of the linkage between sub-sections
thereof or at either end of the linkage. The accordion/concertina
joints/members may be designed to extend in length to some degree.
The linkage may be formed as a single accordion/concertina member.
The linkage may comprise two or more articulated sub-sections that
are linked by one or more joint that may be an accordion/concertina
joint(s). The sub-sections may be substantially rigid and have a
fixed length. However, the sub-sections may be adjustable in
length, for example, by using telescopic arrangements as described
above. Advantageously, the accordion/concertina joints allow the
linkage or the sub-sections of the linkage to flex in various
directions, including bend sideways, relative to each other,
enabling the socket extender to be collapsible or reconfigurable.
It will be readily appreciated that this arrangement allows
improved flexibility, portability and storage.
[0046] As an alternative to, or in combination with the above
arrangement, the at least one joint may form a hinge mechanism that
may comprise adjustable securing means to ensure that the linkage
and/or appliance socket section are supported stably in a desired
angled position. Such securing means may comprise any suitable
pivot hinge fixing position mechanism. Potentially, it could hinge
away from the wall and establish an appliance socket section lying
away from the plane of the wall on which the built-in socket is
formed, yet with the appliance socket section still supported in
this remote position. The advantage of a joint formed along the
length of the linkage between sub-sections thereof and/or at either
end of the linkage is evident in that it affords greater
flexibility in terms of how the appliance socket section is
positionable. The at least one joint may permit sub-sections of the
linkage to hinge in various planes, dependent upon the
configuration of the at least one joint relative to the linkage.
For example, a joint may allow a sub-section to hinge within the
vertical plane created by the wall, or hinge within a second
vertical plane lying perpendicular to the plane of the wall, or a
horizontal plane perpendicular to both the plane of the wall and
the second vertical plane, or any other suitable plane.
[0047] Where the linkage comprises more than one joint, then the
subsections of the linkage may enable the socket extender to
traverse changes in the wall or obstacles located on or adjacent
the wall and thus ensure that the appliance socket section may
ultimately lie against the wall, if necessary. For example, it may
be the case that the wall-mounted electrical socket is located in a
skirting board located at the base of the wall, the skirting board
projecting a small distance from the wall. In this scenario, a user
may wish to use the socket extender to form an electrical socket
directly above the wall-mounted electrical socket but with the
socket extender lying against the wall. The provision of at least
two joints, configured appropriately, could thus permit the linkage
to hinge about the top of the skirting board so that the appliance
socket section lies against the wall, as required.
[0048] The linkage may comprise at least one joint stabiliser,
selectively engageable to control articulation of the at least one
joint. A joint stabiliser is advantageous in ensuring that
sub-sections of the linkage may be secured in a desired hinged
position relative to one another. This can be especially useful
where the imposed moment upon a joint increases, for instance as
the linkage is further extended and/or one or more appliance plug
are inserted into the appliance socket section. The joint
stabiliser may be any effective mechanism, for instance a lock
within the joint to lock the joint in a given position, a tight
frictional fit between portions of the joint, or a bracing support
positioned between sub-sections of a linkage adjacent a joint in
order to reduce the load on the joint and instead distribute the
weight of the electrical socket extender between sub-sections of
the linkage.
[0049] Preferably, the linkage comprises at least one swivel formed
along the length of the linkage or at either end of the linkage.
The swivel may allow the linkage or a sub-section thereof to swivel
relative to the general axis of extension of the linkage. A swivel
is useful since in permits more variation in how the electrical
socket extender can be orientated, to match the demands of the user
and/or environment in which the electrical socket extender is being
used. The linkage may comprise at least one swivel lock to prevent
movement of parts relative to the at least one swivel.
[0050] The appliance socket section may comprise a handle for
movement of the appliance socket section relative to the socket
engaging portion. The handle may be electrically insulated. The
handle, when grasped and manipulated by a user, may allow the user
to more easily guide the electrical socket extender into a desired
position. Preferably, the handle is movable between a use position
and a storage position. The handle may slide or hinge from the use
position to the storage position. The appliance socket section may
further comprise a recess into which the handle is storable. The
handle may be removably attached to the appliance socket section.
Where the handle is removably attachable to the appliance socket
section, the handle may be attachable to the appliance socket
section at a plurality of separate locations, for instance to allow
more convenient relocation of the appliance socket section and/or
so as not to interfere generally with usage of the electrical
socket extender.
[0051] Preferably, two or more linkages may be connected to one
another. This can extend the reach of the electrical socket
extender and/or change the direction/orientation it extends.
[0052] The linkage and/or appliance socket section may comprise
connecting means to fix the linkage and/or appliance socket section
to the wall/surface. Connecting means may be especially useful
since, in certain circumstances, the total weight of the socket
extender may be greater than can be easily supported by the
connection of the socket engaging portion to the wall-mounted
electrical socket. These circumstances could be where multiple
linkages are connected in series, or a network of linkages and
appliance socket sections extend in a modular arrangement from the
wall-mounted electrical socket, all of which can become relatively
heavy. Another situation may arise where the electrical socket
extender must support the weight of many appliance plugs (and
perhaps also the cabling associated with each appliance plug) which
are plugged into one or more appliance socket section of the
electrical socket extender.
[0053] The connecting means may be non-damaging and thus may be
configured to prevent superficial and/or invasive damage, to the
wall. Such non-damaging connecting means may comprise any suitable
arrangement, for instance one or more sucker or removable, marking
or non-marking adhesives and/or securing mechanisms including but
not limited to Velcro.RTM. pads/strips or magnetic means. As an
alternative the connecting means may comprise any suitable
arrangement, for instance threaded screws, nails, or non-removable
adhesives.
[0054] Preferably, the appliance socket section is attached to a
docking plate that is secured to a wall to support the appliance
socket section in a suitable position remote from the wall-mounted
electrical socket. The appliance socket station may be conveniently
clipped onto the docking plate by clipping means or other
connecting means. For safety reasons, the docking plate is
preferably fixed permanently to the wall, but other suitable
connecting may be used.
[0055] The linkage and/or appliance socket section may comprise
means for securing loose cables of electrical appliance plugs.
Provision of such means may reduce tripping or catching hazards
that could otherwise result from hanging or trailing cables, and
the means for securing loose wires may also enhance the aesthetics
of the electrical socket extender when in use. The means for
securing loose cables of electrical appliance plugs may comprise
any suitable arrangement, for instance a hook over which the cables
may be draped or looped.
[0056] Preferably, the socket engaging portion is interchangeable
with differently configured socket engaging portions to accommodate
wall-mounted electrical sockets of different configurations and the
appliance socket section may be independently interchangeable to
accommodate electrical appliance plugs of differing number or
configuration. Interchangeable socket engaging portions may be
particularly useful, for instance, where the configuration of the
electrical socket differs, such as internationally, and so the
socket engaging portion may be interchanged for a socket engaging
portion which matches the differing configuration. By providing
interchangeable socket engaging portions, a user may bring their
appliances with them overseas to be used with the electrical socket
extender. Similarly, an independently interchangeable appliance
socket section, as mentioned above, may be useful in international
territories where a user seeks to use foreign appliance plugs with
the electrical socket extender.
[0057] A part of the socket engaging portion, including the at
least one electrically conductive prong, may be interchangeable to
accommodate wall-mounted electrical sockets of different
configurations. A part of the appliance socket section, including
the at least one electrically conductive recess, may be
interchangeable to accommodate electrical appliance plugs of
differing number or configuration. This interchangeability confers
the same and further advantages as those associated with the
interchangeability of the appliance socket section and/or socket
engaging portion, as mentioned above.
[0058] Preferably, the housing (of the socket engaging portion) is
formed by a cover element and a plug element having conducting
prongs, the plug element being connected to the cover. The plug
element is preferably a conventional electric plug. For clarity,
existing conventional electric plug may be considered as
interchangeable parts, as described above. The cover may comprise
one or more pieces which are pre-assembled, or integrated with, a
conventional electric plug element, preferably wherein the one or
more pieces are secured to the plug by clipping means. The cover
may comprise a handle, as described above. The cover could be
designed such that the handle couples electrically the socket
engaging portion with the linkage.
[0059] An electrical socket extender as that described above may be
provided in kit form, the kit including a plurality of
interchangeable socket engaging portions to connect to wall-mounted
electrical sockets of differing configuration and/or may comprise a
plurality of independently interchangeable appliance socket
sections to accommodate electrical appliance plugs of differing
number or configuration. The kit may alternatively comprise a
socket engaging portion with a plurality of interchangeable parts
to accommodate wall-mounted electrical sockets of different
configurations and/or the appliance socket section with a plurality
of interchangeable parts to accept electrical appliance plugs of
differing configuration. Kits such as those outlined above may be
especially useful to a user who travels frequently to various
countries, and who may want to pack only the elements of the kit
required for that particular country or countries. The kit may
comprise a cover element and a plug element having conducting
prongs, the plug element being connected to the cover to form a
housing of the socket engaging portion.
[0060] An electrical socket extender as that described above may be
provided in an assembled form wherein the socket engaging portion,
the appliance socket section, and the linkage may be integrated in
a single unit.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0061] In order that it be better understood, but by way of example
only, the present invention will now be described with reference to
the accompanying drawings in which:
[0062] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of an
electrical socket extender connected to a wall-mounted electrical
socket;
[0063] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of an
electrical socket extender connected to a wall-mounted electrical
socket mounted near the top of a wall;
[0064] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the electrical socket
extender of FIG. 2, here connected to a wall and extending
horizontally along the wall;
[0065] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of an
electrical socket extender extending around an interior corner of a
room;
[0066] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of an
electrical socket extender extending horizontally around a corner
and then vertically;
[0067] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of
electrical socket extender extending vertically upwards in front of
an upper cupboard;
[0068] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of parts of an electrical
socket extender;
[0069] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a part of an electrical
socket extender, wherein the socket engaging portion has
interchangeable parts to accommodate wall-mounted electrical
sockets of different configurations;
[0070] FIG. 9a is a perspective view of a part of an electrical
socket extender; and
[0071] FIG. 9b is a similar perspective view wherein the socket
engaging portion includes a timer; and
[0072] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of an
electrical socket extender connected to a wall-mounted electrical
socket.
[0073] In the drawings, like parts are denoted by like reference
numerals.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0074] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an electrical socket
extender, generally indicated 10, in accordance with the present
invention. The electrical socket extender 10 has a socket engaging
portion 11 which is connected to a wall-mounted electrical socket
12 mounted in this view upon a skirting board 14, located at the
base of a wall/surface 16. The socket extender 10 is shown
extending vertically up the wall 16. The socket engaging portion 11
comprises a non-conductive housing having at least one electrically
conductive prong (not shown) that inserts into a female recess 18
of the wall-mounted electrical socket 12 to electrically couple
thereto. The socket engaging portion 11 further comprises four
secure primary coupling formations 20 (not all of which are
visible) formed about a periphery of the socket engaging portion 11
such that, when the socket engaging portion 11 is engaged with a
wall-mounted electrical socket 12 each primary coupling formation
20 may releasably connect to a linkage, generally indicated 22, to
form an electrical connection therewith. The electrical socket
extender 10 further comprises an appliance socket section 24
providing two electrical appliance sockets 26. The appliance socket
section 24 comprises a body having at least one electrically
conductive recess 27 formed therein, the recess 27 allowing
insertion of an electrically conductive prong of an electrical
appliance plug.
[0075] The appliance socket section 24 further comprises four
secure secondary coupling formations 28 formed about a periphery of
the appliance socket section 24, though only two are visible, each
secondary coupling formation 28 releasably connectable to the
linkage 22 and each secondary coupling formation 28 having an
electrical connection, interior of the body (and therefore not
shown), to electrically-couple the linkage 22 to the two electrical
appliance sockets 26.
[0076] The electrical socket extender 10 further comprises the
linkage 22, which connects the appliance socket section 24 to the
socket engaging portion 11. The linkage 22 comprises, in this
embodiment, a substantially rigid, elongate and electrically
insulated body having a first end 30 releasably connectable to any
of the primary coupling formations 20, and a second end 32
connectable to any of the secondary coupling formations 28. The
linkage 22 also comprises a conducting arrangement extending the
length of the body (internal to the linkage 22 and thus not shown),
between the first end 30 and the second end 32 to electrically
couple the socket engaging portion 11 to the appliance socket
section 24.
[0077] In use, when the first end of the linkage 30 is connected,
or integrated, to the socket engaging portion 11 and the second end
of the linkage 32 is connected, or integrated, to the appliance
socket section 24 the linkage 22 extends from the socket engaging
portion 11 over the wall 16 and the appliance socket section 24 is
supported in its position remote from the wall-mounted electrical
socket 12 by the linkage 22. In this embodiment, the linkage 22
linkage is linearly extendable and comprises a telescopic
arrangement, generally indicated 34, to permit extension thereof.
The telescopic arrangement 34 further comprises releasable locking
means, generally indicated 36, to secure the relatively moveable
parts of the telescopic arrangement 34 at various positions along a
range of linear extended positions. The telescopic arrangement 34
also comprises three joints 37 formed along the length of the
linkage 22 between sub-sections thereof. In this embodiment, the
three joints 37, are formed as hinges 37, and these hinges 37
permit the sub-sections of the linkage 22 to hinge relative to each
other. This allows it to be adjusted around the skirting board 14
so that the appliance socket section 24 is disposed in a recessed
position (relative to the skirting board 14) and lying against the
wall 16. In this way, the socket extender 10 forms an electrical
socket generally above the wall-mounted electrical socket 12 but
with the socket extender 10 lying against the wall 16 to save
space.
[0078] The appliance socket section 24 further comprises a handle
38 for assisting movement of the appliance socket section 24
relative to the socket engaging portion 11. The handle 38 is
movable between a use position (as shown) and a storage position.
The handle 38 comprises a plurality of telescopic members 40
attached to the appliance socket section 24 and the telescopic
members 40 of the handle 38 may be extended to the use position and
collapsed to move to the storage position. Similarly, the socket
engaging portion 11 comprises disconnecting means 42 to aid in
disengaging the socket engaging portion 11 from the wall-mounted
electrical socket 12 and in this embodiment the disconnecting means
42 takes the form of a foldable handle 42. The socket engaging
portion 11 further comprises an electrical appliance socket 44.
[0079] The appliance socket section 24 further comprises features
commonly found on wall-mounted electrical sockets, and this
embodiment also includes two USB charging ports 46, ON/OFF switches
48 and operational indicator lights 50.
[0080] The releasable locking means 36 of the linkage 22 further
comprises a snap-lock configuration, generally indicated 51, which
is configured such that an interior telescopic section 52 comprises
a depressible locking formation (hidden in FIG. 1 but visible in
FIGS. 7-9b as 106) which is spring-biased to project from the
exterior surface of the interior telescopic section 52. An exterior
telescopic section 54 which telescopes around the interior section
52 has several openings 56 formed along its surface, the openings
56 being large enough to accommodate the locking formation. The
locking formation springs up under action of the spring, through an
opening 56, when an opening 56 slides into position directly above
the locking formation, thus securing the telescopic sections. The
sections of the linkage 22 are generally hollow and square in
cross-section.
[0081] Primary coupling formations 20, and secondary coupling
formations 28, which are not connected, or integrated, to the
linkage 22 are covered by moveable shutters 58 in order to prevent
tampering.
[0082] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of an
electrical socket extender 200 in accordance with the present
invention, here connected to a wall-mounted electrical socket 12
mounted near the top of a wall 16, close to the ceiling, the socket
extender 200 extending vertically down the wall. Grasping of the
handle 38 may help a user to extend the linkage of the electrical
socket extender 200, to position the appliance socket section 24 in
a convenient location for use.
[0083] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the electrical socket
extender 200 of FIG. 2, here connected to a wall-mounted electrical
socket 12 mounted near the floor, above a skirting board 14, the
socket extender 200 extending horizontally along the wall 16, with
the appliance socket section 24 supported in its position remote
from the wall-mounted electrical socket 12 by the linkage 22.
[0084] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of a third embodiment of an
electrical socket extender 300 in accordance with the present
invention, here connected to a wall-mounted electrical socket 12
mounted near the floor, above a skirting board 14, the socket
extender 300 extending horizontally along the wall 16 and around an
interior corner of a room. This arrangement is made possible by the
presence of a pivoting joint 70 formed between sub-sections of the
linkage 22. This embodiment could just as usefully be used to
traverse around an exterior corner between two walls.
[0085] FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of an
electrical socket extender 400 in accordance with the present
invention, here connected to a wall-mounted electrical socket 12
mounted near the floor, above a skirting board 14, the socket
extender 400 extending first horizontally along the wall 16, then
around an interior corner of a room by way of a first joint 70 and
then vertically up a second wall. This embodiment is similar to
that of FIG. 4, except that a second joint 80, with an axis of
rotation rotated 90 degrees relative to the joint 70, is formed
along the length of the linkage 22 which allows the electrical
socket extender 400 to extend further up the second wall, above the
height of the wall-mounted electrical socket 12.
[0086] FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of an
electrical socket extender 500 in accordance with the present
invention, here connected to a wall-mounted electrical socket 12
mounted around the midpoint of a wall between two wall-mounted
cupboards. The socket extender 500 first extends vertically up the
wall, then out from the wall underneath the upper cupboard 90, then
vertically upwards in front of the upper cupboard 90. This
arrangement could be useful if the workspace above the lower
cupboard 92 must be kept free from appliance plugs and their
wiring. It will be appreciated that other suitable arrangements are
also possible.
[0087] FIG. 7 shows a perspective detail view, of a part of an
electrical socket extender in accordance with the present
invention, wherein the socket engaging portion, generally indicated
11a and 11b, is interchangeable to accommodate wall-mounted
electrical sockets of different configurations, and two possible
distinct interchangeable versions are illustrated; a three-pronged
version 11a and a two-pronged version 11b. Existing (conventional)
electrical plugs can be used. The cooperating shapes of the
cuboidal locking formation 106 and square openings 56 formed on the
surface of the exterior telescopic section 54 are also easily
identifiable. Depressing the locking formation 106 permits the
exterior telescopic section 54 to slide relative to the interior
telescopic section 52, until an opening 56 is directly above the
locking formation 106, whereupon the locking formation pops up
through an opening 56, under action of a spring, and secures the
exterior telescopic section 54 relative to the interior telescopic
section 56.
[0088] FIG. 8 shows a perspective detail view of a part of an
electrical socket extender, in accordance with the present
invention, wherein a region of the socket engaging portion 11, is
interchangeable to accommodate wall-mounted electrical sockets of
different configurations. Two possible distinct interchangeable
parts with the electrically conductive prongs are illustrated; a
two-pronged version 112 and a three-pronged version 114. Either of
these may be slid into a recess 110 on the socket engaging portion
11 to engage and electrically couple thereto.
[0089] FIG. 9a shows a perspective detail view of a part of an
electrical socket extender, in accordance with the present
invention, wherein the socket engaging portion 11 comprises an
electrical appliance socket 120 into which an appliance plug may be
introduced.
[0090] FIG. 9b shows a similar perspective detail view of a part of
an electrical socket extender, in accordance with the present
invention, with a different embodiment of socket engaging portion
126 which comprises a timer 130 to control the supply of
electricity from the wall-mounted electrical socket (not shown) to
any appliances connected to the electrical socket extender (not
shown in this view).
[0091] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of
the electrical socket extender in accordance with the present
invention. The features and advantages described in the above
embodiments generally apply in this latter embodiment.
[0092] FIG. 10 shows a socket extender 10 that extends upwardly
on/over a wall 16. The electrical socket extender 10 has a socket
engaging portion 11 which is connected to a wall-mounted electrical
socket 12 that is mounted, for example, upon a skirting board 14,
located at the base of the wall 16.
[0093] The sixth embodiment mainly differs from the embodiment of
FIG. 1 in that the three joints 37 (formed along the length of the
linkage 22 between sub-sections thereof) are formed as resiliently
deformable accordion or concertina types of joints/members, as
shown in the enlarged side view of FIG. 10. The provision of
accordion/concertina joints/members 37 enables the sub-sections of
the linkage 22 to flex in all directions relative to each other. As
a result, the sub-sections can bend sideways relative to each other
to allow the socket extender to collapse conveniently and easily or
conform to underlying wall shapes or external structures. It will
be readily evident that this arrangement allows enhanced
adjustability and flexibility whilst also providing improved
portability and storage.
[0094] It will be also readily evident that the arrangement shown
in FIG. 10 is similar to the arrangement shown in FIG. 8. In fact,
in the former example the socket engaging portion 11 forms a cover
that is designed to enclose/frame a conventional plug element
having conductive prongs. Such a cover may either slide into, or
clipped to, the plug element, for example, to the sides of the
plug. It may also be permanently secured to the plug, for example,
by adhesive means. The cover may be formed by one or more pieces
which are pre-assembled or integrated with a plug element.
[0095] The cover may have a handle 42 to facilitate pulling of the
plug from the wall-mounted socket. FIG. 10 shows a two-piece cover
in which each piece comprises a portion of the handle 42 that is
hollow-shaped such that when the pieces are assembled together and
secured to the plug the electric cable (extending out of the plug)
is fully enclosed in the handle to thereby forming an electrical
connection with the linkage via the primary coupling formation 20
(that is formed in the socked engaging portion 11). The cover could
also be designed such that the electric cable is partially enclosed
in the handle, or runs fully or partially inside the cover.
[0096] In this embodiment, the handle 42 has a first end that is
connected to the output electrical port of the plug and a second
end that is connected to the linkage to enable the electric cable
extending out of the plug to be channeled to the appliance socket
section inside the handle hollowed section and the linkage. In this
example the handle is oriented upwardly towards (and substantially
aligned with) the linkage.
[0097] FIG. 10 also shows a docking plate 15 that is secured to the
wall/surface 16 by various securing means as indicated above. The
docking plate is configured to allow an appliance socket section 24
to conveniently clip and unclip thereon to thereby improving the
stability of the extender whilst also improving safety.
[0098] It will be understood that any features described in
relation to any particular embodiment may be featured in
combination with other embodiments.
* * * * *